Depuis le debut

[spectre_de_la_mort]

"Remember to put yourself after others. That's how things work. You're never to be the top priority."

She gives a nod of her head without a word. It made sense. Don't make all of the attention onto herself and worry about others. That's how the family worked out. Do the chores and errands for her mother and step-father. Make certain that her step-brother was doing good in school and sports. Then after everything was done, she could work on her own things.

"It's selfish to prioritize yourself." Her mother would say that almost every week. Becoming this mantra that stuck in her head. "There's always someone above you."

~

Couple years later, that same thing repeated in the back of her mind. Despite every new flick of knife against her skin and wave of fire. Her welfare was below keeping the secrets of base sealed away from these prying hands. Even when that sickening voice made her shudder with fear. Teeth gnashing against the seething pain working through her body.

Never be the top priority. There's always someone above yourself.

~

Control then became top priority. The safety and productivity of her team being scrutinized. Her focus going towards that rather than if the next target could rend her apart. All that mattered was getting the mission done and with minimum casualties.

Nothing changed when she came back. Not after meeting the quirky family. Nor after saving the closest semblance of a father she had left. They had their own priorities and she was not going to be one of them. It merel gave more strength to the voice in the back of her mind.

"Family comes first." Yes, yes indeed it does.

"You're my number two girl." Yea I've noticed and it works for the best.

"I could never choose between you two." No you can. Choose him.

"You are a part of this machine. One that can be replaced if you prove otherwise." ...Understood, sir.

Never be the top priority. There's always someone above yourself. Always.